Providing lifespan services to individuals with special needs...

Strides for the month of November -EI/VRC

Children's Day Celebration – Early Intervention and Remedial Center

Children's Day is not just a festival-it is a reminder to society that every child, regardless of ability, deserves love, respect, and opportunities to shine. It is especially important for young children in our early intervention and remedial unit because it celebrates their joy, rights, and potential, while reminding society to nurture them with love, education, and inclusion. We celebrated this day with joy and enthusiasm and the little ones had a delightful time listening to songs, engaging in fun-filled activities.To make the day even more special, each child received a goody bag and a personalized card, along with snacks.

Visit to Srirangam – 21st November 2025

On 21st November 2025, Ms. Lekshmi Ramesh, Ms. Lavanya Ashok, Mr.Sivaprakash, and Master Arpith Ashok visited Srirangam to engage with the adults and parents of the center. A DIY art workshop was conducted by Master Arpith Ashok, a talented adult with special needs. His creative session was warmly received by the parents, who appreciated both the activity and the inspiration it brought. Adding to the impact of the day, Ms. Lavanya Ashok shared her personal experiences as a special parent. Her heartfelt reflections provided motivation and reassurance to the adults of the center, encouraging them to see possibilities beyond challenges. Twenty two parents alongwith teachers attended the workshop. Discussions were also held by Mr.Siva and Ms. Lekshmi Ramesh with the team to provide guidance for conducting the sessions and to offer strategies for effectively handling student behavior.

Overview of outreach programs conducted across schools under Atos Foundation support

Workshops for teachers under the Outreach Program

Understanding Learning Styles: A Key to Enhanced Teaching and Learning

Under the Outreach Program supported by Atos Foundation, teacher training workshops were conducted in two schools namely Ahobila Math Oriental Secondary School and Shankara Matriculation School on 24th and 25th October 2025. Twenty eight teachers from Ahobila Math and eighteen teachers from Sree Sankara School attended the sessions.

The sessions, led by Ms. Lekshmi Ramesh - Unit Head and Lavanya Ashok, Coordinator of the Early Intervention and Remedial Unit of V-Excel Educational Trust focused on exploring learning styles among teachers.

Through an interactive questionnaire and engaging discussions, teachers gained insights into their individual learning preferences, understanding how these styles can shape their teaching approaches. The session was marked by enthusiastic participation, with teachers sharing experiences and expressing appreciation for the practical relevance of learning styles in the classroom.

The feedback was very positive, with most teachers indicating they could relate to their identified learning style and looking forward to implementing tailored strategies in their teaching practices, with further guidance from the facilitators. The session proved to be a valuable experience both for the teachers and the facilitators.

Wellness workshop for the teachers of Anandam Special School on 20.11.2025 by Ms. Lekshmi Ramesh and Ms. Lavanya Ashok

The session began with a thought-provoking introduction to Transactional Analysis , a psychological framework that helps us understand how we communicate, respond, and relate to one another. We explored the Parent–Adult–Child model, encouraging teachers to reflect on their own emotional patterns and how these influence their interactions with students, especially those with special needs. The goal was to offer tools for self-awareness and emotional clarity, which are essential in creating nurturing and inclusive learning environments.

Following this, Master Arpith Ashok, a talented adult with special needs, led a DIY art activity. His presence was not only inspiring but also a powerful reminder of the creativity and capability that resides within every individual, regardless of ability. Teachers engaged wholeheartedly, and the activity served as a bridge between theory and practice-bringing joy, connection, and a sense of shared purpose.Fifteen teachers alongwith Sumathi Madam attended the session.

Remedial and Therapy Support

With the support of the ATOS Foundation, we have initiated remedial therapy and counselling activities at Olcott Memorial School and Sree Shankara Matriculation School. These programs are designed to provide targeted assistance to students who have been identified as having learning difficulties, ensuring that they receive the individualized support they need to thrive academically and emotionally. 86 students of Sree Sankara Matric School and 28 students of Olcott Memorial School are given support under this Program.

Our approach combines structured remedial teaching with therapeutic interventions, focusing on strengthening foundational skills, building confidence, and nurturing each child's unique potential. .The response has been truly encouraging teachers have expressed appreciation for the practical tools and insights shared, while students have shown remarkable enthusiasm and engagement in the activities.

Happy Class – Group Counselling for Primary Students of Olcott Memorial School and Sree Shankara Matriculation School

Tinu Tiger was feeling sad because the other children refused to play with him. Mummy Tiger gently reminded him, “Remember, don't harm anyone and don't touch anyone unnecessarily.” Tinu took this advice to heart. He decided not to push others during play or pull away their toys. He apologized to his friends, and soon he was no longer sad-he began to enjoy playing happily with them.

This simple story was the starting point of a group counselling session for the primary grade students of the resource room . The children listened attentively and then began to discuss their own experiences. Some shared how hurt they felt when someone disturbed them, while others expressed their willingness to behave in a more friendly and considerate way.

The counselling class-fondly called the Happy Class by the students-serves as a safe platform to understand oneself and others. It provides an environment where children can speak up without inhibition, reflect on their feelings, and find solutions to improve their weaknesses while strengthening their strengths.

Through these sessions, students are encouraged to:

Communicate more effectively

Become assertive in a positive way

Stay mentally strong and resilient

Just like the rising and ebbing of the waves, our school rhythm continues to gather momentum and ebb away in calmness. The month of November saw both facets.

The month was filled with planning, preparation, and physically getting ready for two big events that were planned for November, the musical Tumbak-A-Tumba and a few days later, the December Bazaar. Of course, it being the month of November in Chennai, the Sun, the storms, the rains are really unpredictable, and we did struggle working around the weather.

Tumbak – A - Tumba postponed:

Tumbak – A - Tumba to be held in Olcott Memorial School, Besant Nagar is the offering of our Blue Blue Sky Choir and this year it is special as we celebrate V-Excel in its 25th year. An evening of song and rhythm was planned. It was planned in collaboration with various other choirs from the city. Unfortunately, the rain Gods held sway over the city and the event on November 30th, Sunday had to be postponed to another date.

Preparations for the December Bazaar

Preparations for the December Bazaar are in full swing. Every December, International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated with a December Bazaar. This year another reason to celebrate was V-Excel is in its 25th year. All the centers in Chennai have got together and are showcasing their products and there is an exhibition and sale of beautiful handcrafted table linen, bed linen, organisers, screen printed metal bottles and ceramic mugs, exotic soaps, bags, podis,ready to eat mixes, garden accessories, pet beds. This is being held in Sharada on Saturday, the 6th of December 2025.

Stories behind the bazaar preparation

The highlight of this year's Bazaar has been the intention of two senior school trainees who felt they needed to graduate out of their vocational training and get into a space where their gifts were being received by the community. They wanted to get into the production of something that would be something they could earn from.

So Vishal, 20 years, has experimented and practiced making healthy gluten-free cookies and is now ready to bake, pack and sell them at the Bazaar. The intention, the willingness to see it through, and the consistency in purpose is something that his teachers are very proud of, and he is now waiting to surprise his parents.

Prasaad, 25, with a good sense of rhythm and music, wrote a beautiful Carol for the Christmas season. He has also been asking for people around him, parents and teachers to see him differently, accept his new adult avatar where he makes his own choices, and to be appreciated for what he really is motivated to do. The idea of a carol in a box was born, and Prasad has handcrafted and sewn from recycled material and rags, small dolls depicting the holy family, written the carol which has been transformed into a song. The carol comes in a box with the story, lyrics, and the dolls for the manger. Carol in a box is now ready for the December Bazaar.

Children's day celebration:

Six volunteers from TCS joined the students for games and music, spent time with them and brought them crayons and sweets. We do at KLC appreciate the gesture and the gift of time spent with our children who love meeting and expanding their social competencies.

Birthdays and farewells

are all part of the school's events but each with a purpose of observing certain rites of passage, helping children transition through stages, and of course celebrate teachers and students for who they are.

Tarang :

This month again the monthly musical with Kaushik Sridharan, Pavithra Balaji, on vocals, Sheik Meera on the Keyboard, Achutha Kumar on pads and multi - percussions was unique and enjoyed by the children. Two languages, same songs, two artistes. The concept and the singing were greatly enjoyed.

Nashik, November 14, 2025

Children's Day was cheerfully celebrated across all three centres-BLA, VLC, and VTU. Various fun activities and competitions were held, keeping the young ones engaged and excited. At BLA, students enjoyed watching the movie Chillar Party, adding to the joy of the occasion. The celebration created happy memories and a day full of smiles for all children. At VLC, children were taught some new games, which helped them enhance their memory power, sense of recognition, and differentiation skills. Children had day filled with a mix of fun and learning.

Nashik November 14, 2025

Our Vocational Training Centre and BLA received two sewing machines from the Goonj Foundation. BLA has been provided with a regular sewing machine, while VTU received a sari fall–pico zig-zag sewing machine to support skill-based learning and vocational training. This contribution will further enhance hands-on training opportunities for students.

Nashik, November 27 & 28, 2025

Ashoka Medicover Hospital, Nashik, in collaboration with V-Excel Nashik, organised a medical camp. The camp was held on 27th November at BLA and VTU, and on 28th November at VLC. General health check-ups, including height, weight, random sugar testing and diet suggestions, were provided for students and staff.

Nashik, November 28, 2025

One of the Trustees of V-Excel, Mr. Rajagopal, along with Director Mrs. Usha Rajagopal, visited all three V-Excel Nashik centres-BLA, VTU and VLC. They interacted with students, appreciated their work and viewed the products made at VTU. They were gifted Lakshmi Paole and Toran, handmade by VTU students. The visit brought great motivation and encouragement to both students and staff.

Nature Walk for our Children

V-Excel Educational Trust Learning Centre, Pandharpur organized a nature walk for our children at the Vithal–Rukmini Temple garden. The walk offered a blend of sensory learning, movement, and real-world exploration, giving the children the opportunity to connect with Mother Nature and explore the world beyond the classroom.

The children engaged in multiple activities that deepened this connection from collecting leaves to experiencing animal interaction by gently feeding a cow. They also enjoyed outdoor games like playing on the playground slide and other outdoor activities that encouraged free movement and joyful participation.

At V-Excel, we believe that learning extends beyond the classroom, and experiences like these help children grow, explore, and understand the world around them.

Children Day

V-Excel Learning Center Pandharpur organized Children Day celebration on 14th of November 2025 at Chinchni Paryatan Kendra which is near by 22 km from Pandharpur. Children welcomed by giving Red Roses and lemon juice. They enjoyed a lot by playing garden equipments, cutting cake, a testy food, music, balloons play. There they also tried open Jim exercises with adults care. There they did Green Grass walk.

The small outing picnic on the occasion of Children Day was fabulous.

Solapur

One Day Picnic Children's Day

14th November

On 14th November we organized a one day outing for students on Children's Day. We often include fun outings like picnics to parks, filled with games serving as a happy break from regular studies. All the three units visited Hotagi Paryatan Kendra. In this park tere were many games, had the Saibaba temple which we visited and took the blessings of Saibaba. Students enjoyed the park and played many games like swing, sea-saw, slides, three-legged race, and running competition was conducted. All the teachers and students enjoyed the day. The day ended with snacks and drinks.

3 days Training Program

25th- 28th November

At our V-Excel Vocational training Centre, a training program was conducted by Family Planning Association of India. We were trained in making various products such as gift bags, purses, phenyl, perfumes, and more. This four-day training was conducted from 25th to 28th November. We express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who made this opportunity possible - Dr. Nabha Kakade, Prof. Dr. Vijaya Mahajan, Dr. Shrikant Yelegonkar, Dr. N. B. Teli, Mr. Sugaratn Gaikwad, and trainer Mrs. Laxmi Kuralekar.

EXAMS

17th- 21st November

From 27th November exams were conducted in the V-Excel school Unit. The exams conducted were on subjects: Maths, language: Marathi and English, EVS, Art and Crafts. All students attended the exams and gave their best.

Teacher Parents Meeting

29th November

A parent-teacher meeting (PTM) is a scheduled discussion between parents and teachers to review a student's academic performance, behavior, and overall development. These meetings are crucial for building a partnership between home and school, identifying the child's strengths and weaknesses, and creating a strategy for the student's success through open communication and collaboration. The teacher discussed with the parents their child's progress and development. Home plans were given to achieve goals early. Parents were happy with their child's progress.

1. Children's Day Celebration

For Children's Day 2025, our students came dressed in bright and colourful clothes, which made the whole place lively. Fun games were conducted for the students. Our staff and therapists performed a joyful dance, which brought laughter to everyone. The celebration was filled with music, happiness, and togetherness as we all danced and played. To make the day even more special, sweets and snacks were distributed to the students, leaving them with happy memories.

2. Monthly Trip

This month, we arranged a short trip to Soleeswarar Temple, a peaceful riverside temple in Erode. Students, parents, and staff joined together, enjoying the calm view of the river and singing bhajans in the temple atmosphere. It was a beautiful time , where parents and children shared moments of joy with teachers. Small snacks were given during the trip, and everyone returned with smiles, feeling refreshed and connected.

3. Karthigai Deepam Preparation

As the Karthigai Deepam festival is approaching, our students are preparing by colouring diyas with bright shades. These decorated lamps are carefully packed and sold in the tuck shop every week. The activity not only brings festive cheer but also helps students learn creativity, patience, and responsibility. The excitement of preparing for the festival has filled the school with a joyful spirit

4. New Weaving Machine

This month, we introduced a custom-made weaving machine, designed by one of our staff members, to make weaving easier for our students. Our vocational learners have started practicing on it, and together we successfully wove a mat as our first product. This activity is helping students gain practical skills, confidence, and pride in their work. It also opens opportunities for them to learn vocational training that can support their future.

5. Free helpline

On November 14th, Shri Anand Jagadeesan visited the Erode Sringeri Saradha Mutt and engaged in discussions with the Dharmadikari Shri Sankara Ramanathan about establishing a free helpline to support individuals and parents of children with special needs. Such a helpline would serve as an accessible channel for immediate guidance, emotional reassurance, and practical information, helping families connect with resources, therapists, and inclusive education opportunities.

NOVEMBER 2025

Field visit from Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya, Coimbatore

The students, Special educators and the Professors of Ramakrishna Vidyalaya, Coimbatore, visited Outreach Special School, Pollachi for an insightful field visit. They explored our classrooms, interacted with our children, and gained awareness about special education practices and inclusive learning environments.

Parent Support Group - Program

Mr. Nejumudheen from CM Seed Pen conducted a one-day workshop was conducted to encourage eco-friendly practices and hands-on learning. Students, along with parents, took part in making biodegradable seed pens using recycled paper and plant seeds.

Pollachi Round Table 226 and Pollachi Ladies Circle 209 – Freedom through Education

Pollachi Round Table 226 and Pollachi Ladies Circle 209, under the initiative Freedom Through Education, organized an engaging storytelling event for the students. The session promotes the joy of learning through meaningful stories. As a gesture of environmental awareness, plant saplings were also distributed to the students.

Children's day Celebration

Children's Day was celebrated happily in our school with the Special Chief Guest Former Member of the Parliament, Pollachi Mr.K.ShanmughaSundaram. The programme included an energetic dance performance, a peaceful yoga display, a cute fancy-dress show, and a vibrant drum performance by the students. Special early intervention activities were also arranged for the younger children. The celebration was filled with joy, enthusiasm, and beautiful moments shared with our Chief Guest and students.

Group Therapy – 15

A Group therapy session for 15th consecutive month was organized to support early developmental skills across various domains. Children engaged in speech activities that introduced basic action words, explored different textures through sensory play, and practiced coordination exercises to improve their motor abilities. A fun parent–child interaction game promoted bonding, while a clay activity helped enhance fine motor control. The session provided a playful and enriching learning experience for both children and parents.

Tamil Nadu State Archery Championship

Our Remedial student Anudeep performance in 18th Tamil Nadu State Archery Championship for Junior level and scored 51st rank in state level competition conducted at Sairam Colleges, Tambaram, Chennai.

Tamil Nadu State Roller Skating Championship 2025

Our student Sanjay Kumar proudly secured 3rd prize in the Tamil Nadu State Roller Skating Championship 2025 held at Chennai. This achievement reflects his hard work, dedication, and consistent practice.

Kovai Vizha 2025 - Art Street

Our remedial students Amrit, Dhanish and Anudeep showcased their creative art forms at Art Street, held on 22nd November 2025 at Government Arts College, Race Course, Coimbatore, as part of Kovai Vizha 2025.

Podcast by V-Excel Educational Trust in association with the Atos Foundation

This podcast, created by V-Excel Educational Trust in association with the Atos Foundation, features Dr. S. Manju, Educational Psychologist who shares insightful perspectives on remedial and special education. The podcast emphasizes individualized support, early identification, and structured interventions that help children learn better.

November 3:

PTA meeting conducted for all the classes to share and discuss about the students progress and the future goals.

November 4:

Birthday celebration of students and staff for the months of September and October was organised.

November 6:

Students' performance video in different events was sent to Madras dyslexia association who are conducting the competition.

November 8:

Some students & teachers went to exhibition organised by Pragati Alt school and learning centre, Knowledge Fest 2025 an exhibition based on NIOS subjects.

November 13:

Children's Day was celebrated with Jayantha vocational training center.

November 13:

Online prelims of art competitions conducted by Madras dyslexia association was attended by our students.

November 13:

Five students and a teacher travelled by flight to Tuticorin organised by Raindrop's ( an NGO) yearly event of "vaaname ellai" to take the deserving students in the flight. Our students participated in various events like press meet, courtallam falls visit,meet and greet with Thiru. Kamal Kishor IAS and visit to the ngo amar seva sangam.

November 14:

Children's Day Celebrated at school by the staff. Gifts and sweets were distributed to the students.

November 18:

Vidhya Mandir School, Mamandoor students and staff of psychology department visited our school for the internship.

November 22:

Our teachers participated in the Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Open Day to explore various AAC systems and devices. The event was organized by Vidya Sagar at the Museum of Possibilities.

November 22:

On the onset of world differently abled day, the Commissionerate for the welfare of the differently abled Chennai, organised a painting competition for the students to show case their talents. Some of our students participated.

November 30:

UK 40 programme a fund-raising musical event was organised by Anandam trust.

NOVEMBER: Success Story – Remedial Unit

Sangeethraj, a 13-year-old remedial student diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), joined V-Excel Educational Trust, Srirangam Centre in 2009. At the time of admission, he exhibited poor eye contact and limited social and communication skills. He appeared weak and tired, and had significant difficulty joining words and speaking in meaningful ways.

His participation in fine motor and gross motor activities was slow and required continuous support. He lacked understanding of basic academic concepts and was unable to read or write. For all his self-care needs, he was completely dependent on his mother.

The student is now able to write his bio-data, including his Name, Father's Name, Mother's Name, Date of Birth, Address, and Phone Number. He is able to join Tamil letters and read fluently. In Mathematics, he successfully does simple addition, carry-over addition, and subtraction problems.

He reads and writes Memory Poems and Thirukkural without mistakes. He independently manages all his self-care needs. He responds appropriately when questions are asked. He can write the names of all the districts in Tamil Nadu. He also writes multiplication tables from 1 to 10 and spells words correctly and clearly.

His eye contact has improved, and there is notable development in both his Fine Motor and Gross Motor skills.

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Monthly Birthday Celebration (November 2025):

The tradition of celebrating birthdays collectively brings a lot of joy and strengthens bonds between staff, students, and trainees.

The celebration of Ms. Sowmya's birthday with a cake-cutting ceremony was a moment of shared happiness and positive vibes for everyone involved.

Children's Day Celebration – November 14th, 2025

We celebrated Children's Day in a very joyful and vibrant manner at our school. The entire campus was filled with excitement as students gathered to participate in the much-awaited Fancy Dress Competition. Children came dressed as Tree, Coconut, Traffic-Signal, Pumpkin, Strawberry, Save Earth, Plastic Carry Bag & Garbage Bag Dress, Waste News Paper Dress and Rainbow. Each child walked onto the stage proudly and introduced their character with enthusiasm. Their performances brought smiles, laughter, and applause from everyone. Teachers encouraged the students and appreciated their efforts, making the event even more special. Overall, the Children's Day programme was a memorable event that highlighted the talent, innocence, and joy that children bring into our lives every day.

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Parent Meet – Arpith Ashok's Journey and Art Workshop – 21st November, 2025

Ms. Lekshmi Ramesh and Mr. S. P. B. Sivaprakash from the V-Excel Head Office, Mandaveli, along with Ms. Lavanya Ashok and her son, Mr. Arpith Ashok visited the Srirangam Centre on 21st November 2025 to meet the parents. During the meeting with the parents, Ms. Lavanya Ashok shared the heartfelt journey of her son, who is on the autism spectrum. She spoke openly about the challenges they faced in the beginning and the consistent efforts taken to support his growth. She expressed how her son has gradually improved in communication, behaviour, learning skills, and confidence with the help of regular guidance from teachers and therapists.

Arpith conducted an Art Workshop for all our parents and teachers at the Srirangam Centre. They arrived with an Art Workshop kit that included a drawing pouch and a complete paint set, which added excitement and curiosity among the parents and teachers. The materials were thoughtfully prepared to encourage creativity and hands-on participation. During the session, he demonstrated various drawing and painting techniques with confidence and enthusiasm, creating a warm and creative atmosphere. His mother spoke with great emotion about how art has played a significant role in her son's development. She shared that engaging in drawing and painting has helped him express his inner feelings, improve his focus, and enjoy the learning process in a calm and meaningful way. She also described how art became a bridge for communication at home and helped him manage stress and emotions more effectively. Her heartfelt sharing touched everyone present and inspired many parents, giving them hope, encouragement, and reassurance that every child has unique strengths that can shine when given the right opportunities and support. The workshop became a memorable experience for all, highlighting the power of creativity in the journey of children with special needs.

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Shri. Velukudi Krishnan Swamigal Visit – 24th November, 2025

Shri. Velukudi Krishnan Swamigal visited our Srirangam Centre on 24th November 2025, accompanied by a group of visitors from Pondicherry. The team was warmly welcomed by our staff and taken on a guided tour of the centre. During their visit, they observed the classrooms, therapy rooms, and learning spaces used by our children.

The visitors showed great interest in understanding the range of services we provide. They asked in detail about the educational, therapeutic, and skill-development activities conducted for the children.

Ms. Sathya Saravanan, Special Educator, explained comprehensively about the various programmes offered at our centre, including special education sessions, therapy interventions, vocational training, and co-curricular activities. She also shared how these activities support the overall development and well-being of our children.

The visit was meaningful and provided an opportunity to showcase the dedicated work being done at our Srirangam Centre.

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Outdoor Activity Report

On 08.11.2025, the children from our center went to the Anna Stadium ground in Palayamkottai for an outdoor activity. The open space gave them a calm and supportive environment, which is very helpful for their sensory and emotional needs. They played freely, explored the surroundings, and enjoyed every moment.

Outdoor activities are important because they help children in many ways. Fresh air and natural light make them feel relaxed and happy. Moving around improves their physical strength and coordination. Playing together teaches them how to share, communicate, and work as a team. Being outside also sparks curiosity and creativity, which helps in learning. Most importantly, outdoor time reduces stress and helps children stay focused.

The session was a joyful experience, and the children returned refreshed and cheerful.

Bhagavan Ramana Center for Specially-Abled Children, Thiruvannamalai

We celebrated Children's Day on 14th November at our Kolapakkam Center. We organised games to the children. Children participated enthusiastically in the games conducted and happy to receive the gifts. SAF HR representatives attended the event and were delighted to present the gifts to the kids.

Strides for the month of November 2025

November, began with the musical event at Tarang, onto getting ready for December Bazaar, Data pattern sale and ended with experiential learning.

TARANG @ BVB ON 13TH NOVEMBER 2025

The theme for Tarang in the month of November was “Bilingual Treat.” The event featured the incredibly talented Shri Kaushik Sridharan and Ms. Pavithra Balajee on vocals, accompanied by Shri Sheik Meera on the keyboard and Shri A. D. Achutha Kumar on pad and multi-percussions.

Tarang's monthly themes, thoughtfully curated by our wonderful coordinator Ms. Usha Suresh, continue to delight and inspire everyone. Each month, different musical instruments are introduced in unique and engaging ways, creating a rich and immersive experience for our staff, students, and trainees.

The performance this time was nothing short of extraordinary. As soon as the program began, pin-drop silence filled the hall. Some of our trainees eagerly began clapping and dancing, joyfully expressing their excitement and connecting to the music.

TRAINING PROGRAM FOR AGRICULTURE PRODUCTS – AGRO TECH GREEN PARK, GUINDY ON 06TH NOV 2025

Bhavani attended a workshop on Agriculture Products at Agro Tech Park, Guindy on 6th November 2025. The program was organised by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Chennai.

It was a one-day training program on making agarbathi, incense sticks, and mosquito coils. Participants were given a certificate and a catalogue with detailed instructions for making the products.

It was a wonderful training program. The basic introduction and information provided were very useful, and we were able to learn many things that would be beneficial for our trainees.

FIELD TRIP TO DUGOUT INFLATABLE PARK AT GRAND SQUARE MALL VELACHERY ON 20TH NOV 2025

A different and exciting experience awaited our trainees during their visit to DUGOUT – A Play Arena at Grand Square Mall, Velachery.

Before the trip, the trainees were well-prepared by revising the sight words they were likely to see around the mall. They were also briefed about what to expect. During the discussion, Rithwik curiously asked, “Will I fall down?”

At the Inflatable Park, the entire play area was filled with inflated surfaces. The trainees explored various activities such as walking on the bouncy floor, crawling through a tunnel-like structure, climbing a ladder-style path and sliding down, trying rock climbing with a rope, balancing on inflated beams, enjoying the neon-lit zone, and playing with soft neon balls. They jumped, laughed, and moved around joyfully.

They also tried the Super Grid, where the challenge was not to step on a specific colour to earn more points. Overall, the entire experience was fun, engaging, and enriching for both trainees and trainers.

The visit also helped us assess how effective their ongoing therapy has been and identify areas where further support would be beneficial.

The trainees unanimously expressed their desire to visit again. Veerasekar enthusiastically said, “Pogalam!” Meenakshi enjoyed every moment and kept smiling throughout.

Ashwin, Rithwik, Rohan, and Sousan confidently read the sight words displayed around the arena, as well as the safety instructions on what to do in case of a fire.

All the trainees, except Meenakshi, used the escalator to reach the play area on the third floor - a big achievement for many of them.

VOCATIONAL ACTIVITIES/FUNCTIONAL ACADEMICS/THERAPY/COUNSELLING

VOCATIONAL ACTIVITIES:

ART & CRAFT:

Trainees made paper bags along with the trainers for the orders received from Tula Organic shop.

Trainees prepared Jute Products like plate, Tray, Agarbatti Holder and Coconut shell Lamp.

TAILORING:

We received an order from Ramana ashram, Tiruvannamalai which we executed and despatched on time.

Tailoring unit team stitched bags on various patterns for the December Bazaar. Trainees cut the materials using templates.

BLOCK PRINTING:

Trainees were trained to print on bags and paper for December Bazaar, SNEH. Two trainees are independent in printing and cleaning the blocks

FUNCTIONAL ACADEMICS:

Uma had individual sessions with trainees and group session on orientating about Dugout.

Movement Session:

Movement session are conducted between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. on all Saturdays by Mr. Ganesh Ram. The trainees participate and perform the activities based on the instructor's guidance.

COUNSELLING/THERAPY/MOVEMENT

Regular counselling sessions are being conducted for parents, along with individual counselling for trainees and staff.

ADL group sessions have been conducted for the boys.

Vasanth had therapy sessions.

Choir performance at Naradha Gana Sabha

On 01 November, YES trainees participated in the choir performance along with the Sargam choir at Naradha Gana Sabha. This is for the inaugural function of the Bharat Sangeet Utsav 2025. We performed select Nottuswarams that we got trained under Ms. Sudha Raja.

Meeting with the Mylapore MLA

On 06 November, Gayathri Suryanarayanan made a courtesy visit to the Mylapore MLA office to meet Thiru Mylai Dha Velu. This visit was to extend gratitude to the MLA for gracing the event TATTVA 2025. This was also to seek support for training and employment of V-Excel trainees with government support, wherever possible.

Visit by students of Chettinad Vidyashram

On 07 November, 30 students from Chettinad Vidyashram along with 2 of their teachers visited YES. These students were from the 12th standard batch with Psychology as one of their subjects. This educative tour was to help them understand the special needs sector and the training strategies that have been followed at YES. The students also had an opportunity to see and observe all the vocations, and they also had a chance to ask questions about the trainees for their better understanding.

Celebrity visit – Ms. Shruti Haasan

On 07 November, we had a surprise visitor who came as part of the volunteer group, Take A Step. Celebrity actor and singer Ms. Shruti Haasan visited YES and spent a couple of hours with the trainees. It was quite heartwarming to see her not just interact with the trainees but willingly participate in the activity they were doing. Trainees were thrilled to see her and many even remembered the roles that she had played. Ms. Shruti was kind enough to sing a song for us and we took this opportunity to wish the legendary actor, her father Mr. Kamal Haasan as it was his birthday also.

Field trip – Tholkaapiar Poonga

On 11 November, to celebrate our trainee Arvind's birthday, we went on a field trip to the renovated Tholkaapiar Poonga. Our Mylapore MLA Thiru Mylai Dha Velu also joined us at the park. He spent some time taking with the trainees and took a few of them in the battery car. He also made sure that our trainees got an escort to take us around the park.

Trainees enjoyed the pleasant weather, nature and the wonderful landscaping done in the park. We also celebrated Arvind's birthday by distributing sweets and chocolates to all the other trainees and the staff members of the park.

International Men's Day

To mark International Men's Day, on 19 November, we did a quick photoshoot with all the men folk including trainees and trainers

Participation in the grand choir performance as part of the Centenary celebrations of Sri Sathya Baba

As part of the centenary celebrations of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, a mega choir event was organised at the Venkata Subbaih Hall, Lady Andal School on 23 November. This was in association with Sri Sai Sishya Parampara and Sargam choir. Honourable former Vice President Thiru Venkaiah Naidu presided the event. Eminent vocalists and instrumentalists including Sri Unni Krishnan, Smt. Nithyasree Mahadevan, Kumari Soorya Gayathri, Kumari Uthara Unnikrishnan, Thiru Rajhesh Vaidhya, Thiru Ghatam Karthik. It was a splendid experience for 7 trainees and 2 staff members of YES to be part of this grand event. Event received great appreciation from the parents who witnessed the performance.

Production

We completed an order of screen printing on 200 bags for Ramanaashram. This is an ongoing process, and we intend to finish 200 bags every month.

We also completed an order for digital printing of 200 mugs for Caterpillar. This order was for their event called ‘Blitz'

For both orders, trainees identified for the production group were involved.